Bluebell season has begun and these are some of the best places to see stunning carpets of purple in Norfolk. 

Watton & Swaffham Times: See bluebells at Pensthorpe in late April and early May Picture: PensthorpeSee bluebells at Pensthorpe in late April and early May Picture: Pensthorpe (Image: Pensthorpe)

1. Pensthorpe

The bluebells at Pensthorpe, near Fakenham, are situated in the ancient woodland, just beyond the wildflower meadow.

There are various attractions to visit while you are there, book admission tickets at pensthorpe.com (adults: £15.95, seniors and children (aged 3+): £14.95, under 3s: free).

READ MORE: Touring theme park with unlimited riding returning to NorfolkWatton & Swaffham Times: Stunning bluebells at Blickling Picture: Antony KellyStunning bluebells at Blickling Picture: Antony Kelly (Image: Antony Kelly)

2. Blickling Estate

Bluebells are in bloom at the National Trust's Blickling Estate in a stunning display of vibrant purple.

Last year, the rangers and volunteers roped alongside the main walkways in the Great Wood for the first time, which has improved the health and beauty of these native flowers.

Watton & Swaffham Times: Bluebells with a backdrop of Wretham Lodge Picture: Wretham Lodge GardensBluebells with a backdrop of Wretham Lodge Picture: Wretham Lodge Gardens (Image: Wretham Lodge Gardens)

3. Wretham Lodge Gardens

Wretham Lodge Gardens, near Thetford, is opening to the public as part of the National Garden Scheme (NGS) on May 5 and 6 from 11am to 5pm (adults: £7, children: free - book at ngs.org.uk).

A 10-acre garden surrounds a former Georgian rectory (not open), which features bluebell and woodland walks.

READ MORE: 9 secret Norfolk gardens opening to the public in May

Watton & Swaffham Times: Enjoy the display at the Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park Picture: Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial ParkEnjoy the display at the Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park Picture: Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park (Image: Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park)

4. Norfolk Bluebell Wood Burial Park

This tranquil natural burial park is located in Hainford and is home to a centuries-old bluebell woodland. 

Bluebell Open Days will take place on May 4, 5 and 6 from 10am to 4pm with refreshments and free entry, with donations welcomed for Norfolk and Waveney Mind. Watton & Swaffham Times: Bluebells in Foxley Wood Picture: Ian BurtBluebells in Foxley Wood Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Ian Burt)

5. Foxley Wood

Visit Foxley Wood, near Reepham, from late April to early May to see beautiful bluebells. 

Managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, it is also a great place for birdwatching and a hotspot for butterflies. 

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Watton & Swaffham Times: See stunning bluebells in Norfolk this spring Picture: Ian BurtSee stunning bluebells in Norfolk this spring Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Newsquest)

6. High Ash Farm

This Caistor St Edmund farm, near Norwich, is holding its annual open day on May 6 from 10am to 4pm. 

See the bluebells in Foxes Grove Wood in Wash Lane, with local food and drinks, tractor rides and music - adults: £4, under 12s: £2, book at highashfarm.com

Watton & Swaffham Times: Marvel at a stunning carpet of purple Picture: Ian BurtMarvel at a stunning carpet of purple Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Newsquest)

7. Lion Wood

Another spot managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Lion Wood bursts into life during the spring.

Located in Thorpe Hamlet, on the outskirts of Norwich, hear birdsong over a carpet of bluebells and red campion.